An Air Force Office of Scientific Research-sponsored group of researchers at the University of Michigan have invented a new type of magnetron that could lead to improved radar systems. According to Dr. Ron Gilgenbach at the university, “This invention should make it possible to develop more compact magnetrons that operate at higher power and higher frequencies.” He said the work exploited “some plasma physics principles … as well as an innovative, new geometry to overcome the physical limitations of conventional magnetrons.” (AFOSR report by Rebecca Rose)
The Space Development Agency says it’s on track to issue its next batch of missile warning and tracking satellite contracts this month after those awards were delayed by the Pentagon’s decision to divert funds from the agency to pay troops during this fall’s prolonged government shutdown.
